The Best Porch Swing Perfect for Lazy Days on the Patio

Why Do You Need a Porch Swing?

After a long day at work or school, we all need to come home and relax. We usually have a certain spot in our home where we destress—one of those spots is the porch. We all know that the best hang-out spot on the porch is the swing.

You can do a lot of things even if you’re only sitting on the porch swing, from drinking a cup of coffee, watching the sunset, recounting old memories,  or even taking a nap after a long day. Aside from being a great spot for relaxing and catching the cool breeze, a porch swing can also be a lovely addition to your home’s exterior.

If you’re looking for a porch swing, the options might overwhelm you. From traditional to modern models, you can narrow down your choices by knowing more about the different types of porch swings.

What Are the Different Types of Porch Swings?

Knowing the difference between the types of porch swings can help you select the swing that best fits your needs and your home's decor. Whether you want a swing chair, swing bed, a classic porch swing, or something else, there's a perfect porch swing out there for you. 

Classic porch swings

The most traditional and conventional type of swings are the classic ones. Classic porch swings are made of hardwood, which never goes out of style. Some people leave the swings unpainted to display the natural touch of wood grain, while others pair them with the overall design of their home. A classic porch swing is also durable, long-lasting, and weather-resistant.

Rollback porch swings

This type of porch swing has rolled boards and seat edges that adjust well with your body for maximum support and comfort. Unlike other types, rollback porch swings have no sharp seat edges that might be uncomfortable to sit on for hours. Some models even come with cup holders so you can have your refreshing drink in hot weather.

Swing chairs

One type of porch swing that will surely make you remember your childhood memories is the swing chair. This is the type of swing that is usually hung in your grandfather’s yard. Also known as a hanging chair, a swing chair can be made from one, two, or more seat sectionals. A swing chair is perfect for kids and adults who are still kids-at-heart.

Porch swing beds

There’s nothing more relaxing than stretching your legs and lying down in a swing bed. This swing type can make you feel that you’re on vacation while at home! Forget about booking a stay in a hotel or resort, as a porch swing bed allows you to read a book, snuggle, or doze off in a clean, fresh environment. Aside from outdoor installments, they can also be put inside your home.

Adirondack porch swings

What makes Adirondack swings unique are their A-shaped frames to provide proper support for your back. They’re best for cozy warm afternoons while chatting with a neighbor or friend. Adirondack porch swings are comfortable even without cushions, as they are perfectly angled for maximum comfort and relaxation at home.

Highback porch swings

This is a type of porch swing that will calm and soothe your senses until you fall asleep. A highback porch swing has a long frame that can extend up to 42 inches to keep your neck protected from stiffness or pain if you fall asleep. You can relax your head and back as well without any worry of jerking out of sleep and falling out of the chair.

What Should You Consider Before Buying a Porch Swing?

Material

Do not neglect the importance of the material as it affects the durability of the porch swing. Here are some types of materials to consider when purchasing a porch swing for your home:

• Natural Wood: One of the best choices for swing material is natural wood. Wooden porch swings are hard, sturdy, and proven to withstand weather conditions. When shopping for wooden porch swings, you can choose from different natural wood variations such as cedar, teak, cypress, and pine. Wooden porch swings are the most classic looking. 
• Metal: Metal has two variations: aluminum or wrought iron. For aluminum, we recommend a cast version, which is lightweight, sturdy, resistant to corrosion, and malleable as well. Meanwhile, wrought iron is durable even when exposed to extreme weather conditions.
• Plastic: You can choose between synthetic resin and recycled plastic. Synthetic resin is commonly used in wicker porch swings. The polyethylene component makes it durable, as well as water and heat-resistant. If you want an eco-friendly material, you can also find a porch swing made from recycled plastic. They look like lumber, but they’re less expensive and resistant to insects and water but may not survive in extreme weather conditions.
• Fabric: Stuffed fabric with soft foam paired with an aluminum or wood frame can be the perfect combo for your porch swing. This type of material is resistant to UV rays and water as well.

Weather and climate conditions

Since you’ll hang the porch swing outside, you’ll also have to consider the weather and climate conditions. Some materials can withstand all seasons, while others only work better in a mild climate. Take care of your swing by coating it with sealant to prolong its life and withstand changing weather conditions.

When it comes to choosing a porch swing, you should consider every factor. Look at the pros and cons of your top picks, and select the best swing that suits your outdoor porch and lifestyle. When you’ve found the right one—you’ll know it’s time to sit back, relax and enjoy your day!

How to Hang a Porch Swing

Once you get your hands on a porch swing, you'll have to hang it up. The manual that comes with the swing should provide you with adequate instructions for the specific model you purchased, but this video from My Old House Fix contains some additional tips and tricks: